Hundreds of students in the North Kitsap School District will turn their tassels this weekend signifying one of life’s first milestones: high school graduation. After the ceremony is said and done, what are their plans? We’re not asking about continuing education or going into the military here. We’re asking if your child’s after party plans include drugs or alcohol. Or both.

Do you even know?

Not a year goes by that a sad scene isn’t played out on graduation night: A young person’s life is cut short because they decided to drink.

According to statistics from Students Against Drunk Drivers, about 10.8 million people ages 12-20 drank alcohol in the month before participating in a 2005 survey. That same survey stated three out of four students consumed alcohol — more than a few sips — before graduating.

Parents, don’t turn a blind eye and think your child wouldn’t do that. Statistics say they would. And if they haven’t before this weekend, they likely will.

Be smart. Tell your children that if they drink, make sure they know their limits. And remind them that if they drink, they should not drive. Along those same lines tell your children not to let their friends drive if they’ve been drinking. It’s better to be hated for one night than have to attend a friend’s funeral.

While we in no way condone underage drinking, nor are we sticking our heads in the sand. We know it happens.

Graduates, play it safe. One night of debauchery isn’t worth your life.